Summary : AU When they met Buffy was a HS senior and Spike a college Junior. She lied about her age & related subjects. He wanted to stay in touch and she refused to give him her phone number, address, or last name. Now: Buffy is an office manager. Spike works for the company that just bought hers and comes for a visit.

Rated: NC17

Romance, Comedy, AU

Late Friday afternoon, Buffy sat at her desk checking her email. Her long blond hair flowed over her shoulders and down her back as she waited for her messages to pop open. Her pen tapped on her desk as she nibbled on her bottom lip. The office was usually quiet on Fridays. Her eyes crinkled up as she smiled when it says she had a message from her long time friend and pen pal: Spike.

Subject: Re: Hey there cutie

Date: Thu, 20 June 2003 15:11:54 -0400

From: sxyspike@hotmail.com

To: EAS@hotmail.com

Hey there cutie! I am going on a business trip next week and probably won’t be able to check my email. Sorry to hear about your sister. She really is giving you hell. I guess we were like that when we were her age, too. Thinking the rules apply to everyone else but us, yeah? I remember when I was a senior in high school… well; maybe I shouldn’t tell you it might give you the wrong idea about me. How’s work? How’s that bloke you’ve been seeing. Treating you right, I hope. I will talk to you later, cutie.

Bye!

Spike

Buffy sighed. She really wished she could find a real guy like Spike, but alas she had yet to meet someone that she could be totally open with. Strike that, Buffy thought, you did meet him but wasn’t totally honest with him. Glancing at her inbox on her desk and noticing it relatively empty, Buffy decided she could sneak a couple minutes of reflective thought into her day. Hitting ‘Reply’ Buffy thought back to the time when they first met.

April 1998

“Come on Buffy!” Cordelia was dragging Buffy out of her house and into Cordelia’s new car: a Mustang Convertible. Cordelia was what Buffy thought as perfect. Her hair was always done and looked flawless. Cordelia kept up with fashion and beauty. She even beat the guys off with a stick, totally opposite of Buffy. Buffy couldn’t care less about fashion, makeup or hair. Give her a pair of jeans, t-shirt, and a ponytail; Buffy was happy. She wasn’t ugly, in fact she was quite pretty, she just didn’t make an attempt to show it off.

Buffy wasn’t in the mood to go out, but her friend insisted that she leave the house. “Let’s go down town and go to some parties!” Cordelia hopped into her new toy and gunned the engine. Spring break was in full swing in the little town of Sunnydale. University student from around California and neighboring states flocked to the sleepy town. The cops usually didn’t crack down on underage drinking so as long as the spring breakers weren’t destructive, the cops left them alone. Sitting back, Buffy let her friend drag her downtown. They passed a bunch of guys and girls headed to the different bars to start the party tonight.

Looking through the masses, Buffy recognized some fellow classmates. “What if we run into Angel?” Buffy whined. All she wanted to do is sit down in front of the TV and watch sappy tragic love stories with Ben and Jerry’s and cry her eyes out.

“And? So? The best revenge is to show that he isn’t going to rule your life. We’ll go into one of the bars and flirt with a bunch of guys and get free drinks. If he shows, he will just see all the guys around you and see what a moron he was to let you go.” Cordelia made it sound so simple.

“But he does! I can’t help it I love him! I can’t flirt with other guys.” Tears in Buffy’s eyes welled up.

“Oh, stop it, Buffy. He is no good. He CHEATED on you. He’s an asshole. Look, it won’t hurt you to bat your eyes and get a couple of free drinks, right? Even if you two work it out, all you will be doing is drinking free drinks.”

“Well, when you put it that way…” Cordelia looked over at Buffy and visa versa. Both girls let huge grins erupt on their faces as they sped towards downtown.

~*~*~

The first bar they entered was filled with people they knew, high school people. Groaning the two girls left that one and headed to another. Making an entrance, Cordelia sashayed herself up to an empty table. They guys gave Cordelia cat whistles and wolf calls as she passed. Buffy walked demurely behind her. Looking around Buffy realized most people, including Cordelia, were dressed very provocatively. Buffy looked down at her own jeans and peasant blouse and shrugged. She never got much attention while she was with Cordy; she always was the center of attention. Cordelia sat down, waiting for the first guy to approach. “Loosen up Buffy. Take your hair down and smile.” Cordelia was always telling Buffy to let her hair down from her ponytail. “Oh, here comes one. Smile and bat your eyes.”

“Hey there, mind if I buy you a drink?” The guy looked Cordelia's body up and down with a leer.

“Oh, please. I am so thirsty.” Cordelia batted her lashes and smiled. The guy stood between Buffy and Cordelia, blocking Buffy.

“Sure thing, doll face… I’ll be right back.” He left and Buffy let out a sigh of relief.

“Ug, leer much?” Buffy shivered. Cordelia snickered and nodded.

“Oh, Buffy just look around all these guys are horny bastards. All they want is a pretty face, a hot body, and no attachments. No matter what they say, they want a fuck and then they are gone. All that we need to do is have them think they are going to get a fuck and then dump them before it gets to that point.” Cordelia flipped her hair behind her back and watched as the guy came forwards with two drinks. “Oh, thank you handsome!” Cordelia grabbed both drinks and gave one to Buffy.

“Hey, that was mine…” The guy started but stopped when Cordelia innocently batted her eyelashes at him again. “Wanna dance?” For the next three hours Buffy watched as her friend flirted and danced with all the guys scoring free drinks for her and Buffy. Buffy sat back sipping on the latest attempt to woo Cordelia, Buffy didn’t notice she had an admirer from the pool table area.

“Go talk to her, Spike-man.” Xander slapped the back of his bleached-blond friend. Spike just stared at the girl sitting alone at one of the tables. Throughout the night he noticed all the guys coming over and asking her friend to dance and buying her drinks. Not one of them paid any attention to blond unless the brunette grabbed a drink and gave it to her. She caught Spike’s eye as she entered the building. All the other girls were dressed in skimpy blouses and skirts, but this blonde came in jeans and a respectable top. Her hair was pulled up and she wore minimal makeup.

“Playing pool, mate.” Spike turned around and took his shot, sinking two balls at the same time. He walked around the table and got ready to take his next shot when he noticed a guy approach the object of his thoughts. The girl looked up and shook her head vehemently. The guy grabbed her arm as she struggled to free herself. “Be right back.” Spike walked over with the pool cue and listened to the girl talk.

“Angel, I told you leave me alone!” She was still struggling against the guy pawing at her.

“Baby, I already told you I’m sorry. Let’s go and talk some place.” He was trying to pull her towards the door.

“No, leave me alone.” Buffy wanted to kick Angel in the nuts, but she couldn’t get a good shot. Who the hell did he think he was, coming in here like this?

“Come on, let’s go talk.” The girl was struggling in earnest as the patrons around them just stared.

“No!” She looked around to find Cordelia, but couldn’t.

Spike stepped forward, “I believe she asked you to leave her alone, peaches.”

“What’s it to you? This has nothing to do with you.” The guy was a good deal taller than Spike, but that didn’t scare him. Spike knew he could handle himself in a fight, and he also knew that he had Xander and a couple of his buddies from school.

“Just the lady said to let her go and you aren’t.” Spike shrugged and insinuated himself between the blonde and the hulking mass of Cro-Magnon man. The blond was finally free and stepped back behind Spike thankful someone came to her rescue. She watched the anger increase in Angel’s eyes. He didn’t like to loose and she was afraid this would turn to fists soon.

“Oh, fancy college boy, I’m scared. Look she’s my girl and…”

“I am not your girl, Angel. You cheated remember? That makes me your ex girl!” Spike closed his eyes. He remembered the pain of being cheated on. Drusilla. That name made his blood go cold. He felt the rage build inside him as he remembered walking in on her fucking another guy in his bed. She just stopped hopping up and down on his dick and turned towards Spike and crooked her finger like he was going to join them.

Angel broke Spike out of his painful thoughts, “And we were having a private discussion.”

“It didn’t look like she wanted to talk with you, so why don’t you take your poofy ass out of here and leave her alone.” Xander came up behind his friend to back him up. A couple other classmates came up and circled around.

‘Fine, whatever, I don’t need this crap.” Looking over Spike’s shoulder her continued, “We will talk later, sweetheart.” With that Angel left.

With a sigh of relief Buffy looked up at her savior. “Thank you.” She stepped back and went to find Cordelia. It was time for her to leave.

Before Spike knew it the pretty blond disappeared. “Oh bloody hell, where’d she go?” Xander shrugged and headed back to his pool game. The guys that congregated around were already gone. Looking around, Spike finally spotted the girl climbing the steps to go to the second floor. Running, he caught up mid way up the stairs. “Oi, pet, wait!” She turned around and looked at him. “Hey, are you OK; I mean that guys was man handling you.”

Buffy stared at him speculatively but only saw sincerity in his eyes. “Um, yeah. Angel can be a bully. Thanks for stepping in.” She turned around and continues to head up the stairs. She wasn’t in the mood to make small talk with some college boy. She just wanted to go home.

“Hey, wait!” Spike wasn’t used to girls walking away from him. This really intrigued him. She turned around. “So what’s your name, luv?”

Her eyebrows shot straight up. “Excuse me?”

“What’s your name, luv?” Spike gave her the most devastating smirk he could work up.

“First off, I am not your love. Secondly I am looking for my friend so I can leave. Thank you for helping me with Angel, but good bye.” She turned around and continued up the steps.

Spike ran up past her and blocked her escape route. This one was a tough cookie. “Look, pet. I don’t know your name so if you give me your name I wouldn’t have to call you luv.” He smirked as he saw anger flash through her eyes and then quickly die.

“Buffy.” She stated simply.

“Well, hello, Buffy. I’m Spike your night in shining, uh tarnished armor.” He held out his hand. As she slipped her hand into his, he brought it to his lips and caressed the skin on her hand. They both felt the warmth from the other seep into their own skin. Blushing furiously, Buffy ducked her head. “Can I buy you a drink?” Spike felt his stomach flip when he saw her blush she was a cutie.

“UH, I’m looking for my friend.” Buffy looked around, trying to find Cordelia.

“I am hoping a friend of not the male gender?” Spike smiled knowing she was looking for her female friend that was now busy making out with someone near the bar.

“Um, no… Cordy… we came together and I really want to go home.” Maybe if Cordy wanted to stick around, Buffy would, too.

“Well, pet. I bet you are thirsty and it doesn’t look like you are very successful at finding her. I bet if you have a drink with me, she’ll pop up.”

June 2003

Subject: Re: Hey there cutie

Date: Fri, 20 June 2003 16:30:34 -0600

From: EAS@hotmail.com

To: sxyspike@hotmail.com

Hey, Handsome!

Dawn says she hates me now. I remember telling my mom the same thing when I was 17. She’s been grounded for the past week and a half and she still is sulking. She says it’s not fair and I tell her such is life, but she just glares at me. It’s strange to hear the same words coming out of my mouth that came out of my moms. I shudder at the thought. Riley and I’ve been OK. We haven’t gotten much alone time lately, but isn’t that life? We’ve been busy at work. Evidently someone from the new home office is going to come in and peak around so it’s probably a good thing that you won’t be able to email me. Well, it’s getting closer to clock out time and I need to tidy up the office for the big wig to come in on Monday. Talk to you when you get back.

Always,

Buffy

She hit the send button. Buffy sat back in her chair and thought some more on that first night. Back then; everything seemed to be falling apart in her life. Her parents just got a divorce and were battling for the affections of their children. Her boyfriend, love of her life, of six months was caught cheating and they broke up. Her sister was annoying her by reading her diary and then tattling on her. Everything was spinning out of control, until that night. Spike made everything seem smaller. That was the night she finally started to grow up.

April 1998

After Spike bought Buffy a drink they sat at a table in the back of the club. Buffy couldn’t believe this hot guy was hitting on her. The only reason Angel even gave her a second look was because she was Cordelia’s best friend. They have known each other for years, but he never paid attention to her. Until one day last summer, Angel stopped by Cordelia’s house while the two girls were lounging by the pool and started to talk to her. Buffy had a sneaking suspicion, especially after catching him cheating the only reason he paid a moments attention to her was because she could fill out a two piece and he wanted into her pants. It was quieter and Spike wanted to get to know this blonde pixie better. Cordelia disappeared from the bar, Spike presumed to go some place a little more intimate. “So how far are you along?”

“Huh?” Buffy looked up with her hazel eyes, looking like a deer caught in the headlights.

“Year, pet. What year are you in school?”

“Oh, I’m a senior.” She smiled coitishly. “You?”

“Junior, you look young to be a senior.” Buffy looked up again. Opps she’s a senior in high school, guess it wouldn’t hurt to pretend. She shrugged her shoulders and looked around the club searching for Cordelia. “What school?”

Buffy thought ‘Oh shit… what if you pick the same school that he goes to then he will know you are lying.’ “Oh, SunnyD.” There, if he went to Sunnydale University, she could cover up and say she meant the high school. “And you?”

“UCLA.”

“Wow, whatcha doing all the way down here?”

He shrugged, leaned closer to her and whispered, “All the pretty girls,” and winked. Blushing, Buffy looked away. This guy was definitely one of the ones Cordy was trying to warn her against, but at this point Buffy didn’t care. It was nice to be noticed. “Look, pet. I am not really into this scene. Do you know anywhere we could go talk?” She looked at him like a deer again. “Public place, of course. I have no intention to sully your virtue.” He smirked and winked again.

“I don’t know. I still have to find Cordy.” Buffy couldn’t believe her luck. This hot guy just wanted to talk! Maybe Cordy was wrong about all these guys.

“I think she went out back with a guy, we can try to find her together, if you want.” He grabbed her hand and pulled her up to a standing position.

She stopped dead in her tracks and looked at him curiously. “How do you know what she looks like?” She looked so cute with her head cocked to the side.

“I must admit, I’ve seen you two come in and sit together.” Spike ducked his head shyly and glanced up to see if she was angry. And she was. Her hands made it to her hips and her legs were planted firmly on the ground.

“If you are just being nice to me to get to her, you can forget it. You can’t get to her through me.” Buffy crossed her arms over her chest.

“Pet, Buffy… please…” She was walking away and he followed. “I didn’t mean it like that. I noticed YOU coming in.” She turned around to glare at him. His eyes told her he was sincere.

“Either you are telling the truth or you are an acting major.” Her lips upturned a little.

“I’m telling the truth. I am an English Major.” He lifted his hand out for her to take. “Come on, pet, let’s go find your friend and a nice restaurant to sit and talk.” Buffy reached out her hand and twined her fingers with him. Perfect fit. When she held Angel’s hand, it was hot, sweaty, and big. After a night of holding hands, her knuckles and fingers hurt from being spread so wide. “I think I saw them head this way.” Spike led Buffy towards the back. Most of the couples were dry humping and making out furiously. Buffy blushed and looked down, trying not to stare at the erotic pictures the couples performed. They found Cordelia and her ‘friend’ in the back. Stepping forward Buffy nudged Cordy on the shoulder.

“God, rude much!” Cordelia said.

“Hey, girl. I am going to leave, OK?” Cordy turned around to face her friend.

“Huh, Buffy?” Cordelia wasn’t too swift on the uptake between the lust and the alcohol she was quite dumb.

“Yeah. We are going to go to a restaurant to go talk. It’s too loud in here.”

“Uh, OK. Here take the keys; I’m too drunk to drive anyways.” Cordelia handed over her precious keys and went back to kissing her companion. Shrugging, Buffy lead Spike out to the back alley.

“So do you know any good places to eat? I’m a bit peckish.” Spike rubbed his stomach as they headed for the main street.

“Uh, there is a diner on fourth with the best burgers and shakes. If you want something more sophisticated there is a bunch of chain places and a couple fancier restaurants.”

“A burger sounds good to me, pet. Lead the way.” They walked in silence to the diner. Spike kept her hand wrapped in his. It was such a long time since he’s been able to just hold someone’s hand. The string of girls he went through after Drusilla weren’t around long enough to hold hands with. As they neared the diner, he could smell the greasy goodness. “So since you suggested this place, you aren’t going to order a salad, are you?”

She looked up and smiled. “Depends are you buying?”

Spike looked like she just insulted his man jewels. “Oh course! What do you take me as, an evil, soulless thing?”

She laughed. Spike thought she had a beautiful laugh. Her eyes glowed when she laughed. “Just checking. You know poor college kids and all.” She sashayed her ass inside the diner and sat in the last booth. Following her, Spike smirked and curled his tongue around his front teeth.

“So what’s your major?” He sat down and looked at the menu while she sat looking at the other customers.

“Huh, what?” She moved her attention back to Spike.

“Major, pet.”

“Oh,” Oh, come up with it quickly girl. “Business.” Everyone was in business, weren’t they?

“Ah, the old money maker, huh? Did you grow up here?”

“Moved when I was a teenager.” They sat in the last booth in the greasy spoon for hours. Waitresses came and went as the two discussed everything from mundane to fantasy. Both were amazed at finding such a smart, interesting person in the bar.

“Hey, Cordelia!” Buffy breezed into the coffee shop and sat next to her long time friend. Her golden long hair bounced behind her as she hugged her friend and stepped to the side.

Cordelia looked up from her script and smiled. “Finally. You know it is rude to keep a very important actress waiting,” she looked at her watch, “for five minutes.”

“Good thing there isn’t anyone around that fits that description.” Buffy turned around to go order her Chi Tea from the counter.

When Buffy walked back to the table, Cordy looked up again, “You are the only one I know that would buy tea from a coffee house.”

“I am sure I am not the only one since they do still have it on their menu.” Buffy sat back and enjoyed the time with her friend. The two drifted apart after their senior year in high school. Right before graduation Buffy and Angel tried to work things out and Cordelia got majorly pissed. She maintained that Angel was a scumbag and Buffy shouldn’t bother with him. She failed to mention that Angel hit on Cordelia while he was trying to get together with Buffy. Cordelia went to LA to become an actress and Buffy stayed in Sunnydale to go to the local college. During Buffy’s sophomore year, her mother became ill and Buffy was forced to drop out of college to support her sister, Dawn. Cordelia entered their lives shortly after, hearing about their mom. Cordelia became Buffy’s rock once again. She helped them sell the house and move to Los Angeles where she could help more. She helped Buffy get a secretarial job at a local publishing company. A little embellishment on her resume here and a little hairspray there, Buffy transformed into a productive member of society and a total hottie. “So how’s the promotion?”

“Great. I know it’s only been a couple months since I stepped into the office manager position, but I think it’s going good.”

“Not to mention the money.”

“Oh course, can’t mention the money.” The girls sat at the table giggling like schoolgirls over the most mundane things.

~*~*~

William “Spike” Bennett was sitting in the airport lounge working on his laptop. Thanks to his Internet connection through his company’s satellite, he could check his email. Opening his hotmail account he was pleasantly surprised by the email from Buffy. Forgetting about the personnel files he was supposed to go over, he opened her email up and chuckled.

Subject: Re: Hey there cutie

Date: Friday, 20 June 2003 20:30:14 -0400

From: sxyspike@hotmail.com

To: EAS@hotmail.com

Hey, pet. I’m currently at the airport ready to head back to California. I wish you would tell me where you and Dawn moved to; I would love to see you. If I knew your last name I would look you up. <Hint, hint> I haven’t been to California since I graduated. Can you believe it? It’s been almost four years. Wow, I can’t believe I’ve been out that long. I just got off the phone with Xander, he says he say that friend of yours on the telly in a made for TV movie last night. Do you still keep in touch with her? Does she know where you live? I miss you.

Bye,

Spike

Sitting back, Spike thought back on the time he spent with Buffy.

April 1998

After spending the night at the diner talking, Spike and Buffy found Cordelia’s car. Buffy looked over to Spike and said, “Um, do you… I mean… can you… uh… do you mind driving?”

Spike looked at the flustered girl and smiled, “Sure thing, pet. I bet this baby has some power behind it.” She relinquished the keys as he walked her over to the passenger side. “In you go,” he opened the door and helped her into the car. Walking over to the driver’s side, Spike was a little giddy: never in his life had he had an opportunity to drive such a beautiful machine. His family was poor; the only reason that he could go to college was a full scholarship and grants. Hopping in and starting the roar of the engine Spike looked over at his new friend, “Where to, pet?” Buffy shrugged. They could go find Cordy and give her back the car, but that would mean the night would be over and she wasn’t ready for that. Spike was really nice and intelligent; making her think beyond the confines of her own mind without making her feel stupid. Angel would make her feel stupid. Buffy chuckled a little, Angel. She hadn’t given Angel a second thought after Spike came to save her. “What’s so funny?”

“Oh, just thinking to myself. How about the beach?”

“Sounds good.” He followed her directions to a small beach. They sat in the car with the top down watching the sunrise and continuing their discussions. Spike found out more about her family and living in a spring break town. Buffy learned of the tough life Spike grew up with in England and the way he got his nickname. He told her the story of coming over to the United States when he was sixteen and his subsequent juvenile delinquency. It seemed so natural to share intimate things like this.

As the sky turned from black to deep purple and blue, they sat in the car in silence. The birds started to chirp but neither paid attention, as they were lost in each other’s eyes. Spike’s hand held hers over the gearshift, caressing circles on her skin with his thumb. As the sun crested over the horizon, their heads moved like there was a magnetic pull. Their lips met gently, almost tentatively, finding the correct position. His lips were cool and smooth as they slipped over hers, opening his mouth and running his tongue out to caress her bottom lip. Groaning, Buffy opened her mouth and flicked her tongue over his. Getting the needed encouragement, Spike wrapped her arms around her and they continued to make out until the early spring-breakers started to pass the car, heading to the beach. Reluctantly the two pulled apart, slightly embarrassed at the intensity that they were kissing with. “Hungry?” Spike didn’t want his time to end with Buffy, afraid he would never find her again.

“A little, I should be getting home though.” Spike’s face fell in disappointment. “But, I guess since I have to find Cordy anyways to return her car, it wouldn’t hurt to have some breakfast, too.”

Grinning from ear to ear, Spike put the car into drive and they headed back to the downtown in search of breakfast and Cordelia. “You know, pet, if we can’t find your friend, we might have to spend the whole day together.”

In mock outrage she countered, “Oh, the humanity!” Laughing together, they headed to a popular breakfast restaurant.

Present day

William heard the call for his next flight. Gathering up his laptop and paperwork he headed to the gate. He found his seat in business class and began to look over the details of the new company he was visiting. William was the newest vice president in the biggest advertising agency in Chicago, Omni Hype, and he was visiting the newest acquisition, Public Claim, a small, but successful publishing company in LA. Omni Hype was hoping to expand their customer base by creating a branch office in LA. In front of him was laying the personnel records of the thirty employees that currently were working for Public Claim. William was supposed to figure out how to cut costs and more than likely it would come from the staff especially if Omni Hype wanted to insinuate its key players into the office staff to keep things rolling towards their goal. Not really interested in looking over mundane things, he went back to thinking about Buffy and the first whole day they spent together

April 1998

Finding Cordelia was easier (darn the luck) than what Buffy or Spike thought it would be. They entered the ‘Glaze and Wonder’ for breakfast and long and behold, Cordelia was sitting in a booth with her companion from last night. Looking up, Cordelia caught Buffy’s eye and waved them over. “Buffy! How’s my car? You didn’t scratch it did you?” Cordelia seemed on edge, a little to hyper.

“Relax, Cordy, its fine.” Cordelia motioned for Buffy and Spike to sit.

“Uh huh, where is it? I know about you and driving. Why did I give you my keys?” Cordelia looked up into the sky like she was talking to God himself. Buffy blushed and looked down embarrassed. She didn’t want Spike to know that she couldn’t drive stick, let alone not drive at all. Spike looked at Buffy and grinned, he suspected Buffy didn’t know how to drive stick, but now it sounded like she wasn’t a very good driver period. “So who are you?” Cordelia bluntly asked.

“Oh, sorry, Cordy, this is Spike. We met last night when he saved me from Angel.” Spike snorted at that name. “Spike this is Cordelia, or Cordy as I call her, and this is… I’m sorry I didn’t catch your name.”

“Wesley.” Cordelia’s companion introduced himself.

“Oh, British, too. How did we end up finding two British guys?” Buffy kidded. She felt more comfortable with Spike sitting across from her, than she has felt in years. Buffy mused it was weird that she didn’t feel comfortable to be herself when she was around her friends, save Cordy. During get-togethers Buffy usually ended up being quiet and just watching her friends interact versus actively participating in conversations and their antics. When the two friends were alone, Buffy was much more out going.

Shrugging off the introspective thoughts, Buffy smiled at Spike as reached across the table. “I think the question at hand is how did two blokes like us end up finding two ladies such as yourselves, ey mate?” Spike elbowed Wesley in the ribs.

The four talked over breakfast. Buffy noticed Cordy was a little quiet, but shrugged it off. Maybe she was just letting Buffy be the open girl, center of the party for once. Once they finished breakfast, Buffy handed Cordelia’s keys back to her and she left. Wesley walked back to the hotel he was staying at leaving Buffy and Spike alone once again. “So, um, pet…” Spike started. “Think we can hang out tonight? Maybe catch another bite to eat and movie or something?”

Buffy couldn’t believe her ears. Spike actually wanted to get together again. “Don’t you want to hang out with your friends?” The look of Spike’s face made Buffy realize she said the wrong thing. “I mean. I would love to hang tonight. I just wanted to make sure that… you know, got to have fun.”

“Fun? You are fun to be around.” Spike took her in his arms and brushed his lips against hers. “I wouldn’t have asked you if I didn’t want to be around you.” Her arms wound around his neck. “Plus the only friend I am with is Xander.” At her questioning look, “Remember that other bloke that was in the bar? He came up beside me when talking to your ex.”

“Oh yeah, I remember. Are you sure you want to hang with me tonight instead of him?”

“I see him practically everyday. I’d rather spend time with you.” Buffy’s heart melted at the shy schoolboy look Spike was sporting. His eye lashes dipped low and fluttered.

“Oh, how can I deny such a hottie!” Buffy kissed his lips again. “When do you want to meet?”

“I was hoping five minutes ago.” Spike held Buffy tighter.

“You know I need to go home,” she pouted.

“Oh, look at that lip. Going to get it,” Spike swooped down to capture her bottom lip and worried it with his teeth. “I’ll walk you home.”

“No!” Buffy said quickly. “I mean, I can walk home, it’s OK. You should go to your hotel and get some rest for tonight. So when do you want to meet?”

Sighing, “Fine, pet. How about six in front of that bar from last night.”

One last kiss and then, “K, Spike, I’ll meet you in front of Goldilocks!”

“Oi, please tell me that isn’t that bars name?” she giggled and nodded her head. “Oh my god, I was in a poofter’s bar.” She giggled again and headed to her home.

Present:

Spike adjusted his frame in the uncomfortable seat. Glancing at the files in front of him, he decided to get to work. From the report from the previous management the Public Claim was in major need of restructuring. The books currently looked good, yet the profits were dwindling because of mismanagement. The report stated there had been a decrease of spending since the new office manager stepped in. The last one was terribly disorganized and would just order more supplies when she couldn’t find what they already had. It turns out that they found 15 boxes of staples in her file cabinet. No office of that size uses that many staples in a month, let alone a year. William took the personnel file of the new office manager, Elizabeth Summers. One week after being promoted from secretary she brought up productivity with the support staff. Her work was extraordinary as a secretary and far surpassed the job of her predecessor as office manager. He marked a circle on her file and went on. The next file on his list was Parker Abrahms. Inside it noted several sexual harassment complaints from the secretarial staff. William snorted and continued leafing through it. Documented cases of Parker leaving the office during the day with out permission, long lunches, and un-business like practices were littering his file. William marked a red checkmark at the end of his file. Continuing, he went through about half the files marking red checkmarks and black circles on each file.

April 1998

“So who was the hunk of salty good ness this morning?”

Buffy groaned and flipped over on her back in her room. Talking into the phone, “I told you, Spike. He saved me from Angel.”

“He’s more than just Spike, dish girl. I haven’t seen you act like that with anyone else. Not even with Angel. I was beginning to think that that part of Buffy was mine and mine only.”

“I don’t know. I feel so comfortable with him, you know?” Buffy twirled her hair around her finger. “We spent the whole night talking in the diner.”

“Oh yeah, just like Wes and I spent the whole night talking. I saw how he was looking at you and you definitely weren’t just talking.”

Buffy blushed, “Speaking of Wesley. What’s up with you and being all non-communicative girl? You didn’t even kiss him goodbye.”

“Uh, yeah. You noticed? It isn’t going to work out. The thing about these college guys coming into town looking for a spring fling is that, it’s just a fling. Wesley was looking for a good time last night, I was looking for a good time, and we had a good time together. Now it’s over.”

“But it doesn’t have to be that way. I mean you could keep in touch and everything.” Buffy sat up on her bed. Spike was different he wasn’t looking for a just a good time, he wasn’t.

“Sweetie, yes it is. I bet you didn’t tell that hunk of man meat that you were in high school, did you?” Buffy blushed a little. “When he goes back he will forget about you. You’ll go back to a senior in high school and he will go back to his school and you two won’t keep touch. I’ve been through this before. Trust me.”

“But it’s different. We’re different.”

“With my first fling I thought so, too. But it wasn’t and you two aren’t. Just have fun these next couple days and then say goodbye. Don’t give him your number because he will never call. And you never know where your number will end up. At best in the trash at worst a trucker’s rest stop. Just have fun. Don’t give your hopes up; I don’t want to see you hurt. Oh my mom is calling me, I have to go. Talk to you later, OK, girl?” With that the two friends hung up. Buffy sat in her room for a long time contemplating the advice her friend gave her. Cordelia never steered her wrong, so does that really mean that they weren’t different?

Present day

Buffy was emptying her car full of groceries when a familiar voice startled her. “Hey Buff, need help?” Riley walked over and patted Buffy’s ass. He reached into her jeep and grabbed a couple bags. He hefted the bags up the stairs into Buffy’s apartment. After her mom died, Cordelia convinced Buffy to move Dawn and herself to LA because the job market was much better there. Ever since then, Buffy and Dawn have lived in the same apartment. Sighing, Buffy followed Riley up. She hated to compare the men in her life to Spike, but she did. She followed Riley’s big lumbering body as it worked itself up to her apartment. She wasn’t happy and she knew it. The recent time apart made her realize that Riley was a nice guy, but she wasn’t in love or happy with him. She was going to have to have a talk with him, but not tonight.

Riley’s bulky frame dwarfed Buffy’s naturally petite frame on the couch. After making dinner and eating, they settled down in front of the TV to watch a movie. His arm was weighing on her shoulder as he tried to bring her body closer to his. Half way through the movie Buffy felt Riley adjust himself to make his move on her. Getting up, Buffy walked in the kitchen to get away from a potentially embarrassing confrontation. However, Riley followed her into the kitchen. “What’s going on, babe?”

Buffy shuddered at his pet name. “Nothing just needed to get up and stretch.”

Riley moved towards her and tried to wrap his arms around her. Buffy shrank back and Riley stepped back. “You know I can’t stand to be lied to, what is going on with you. We haven’t had any time to be alone together and now that Dawn in on her date and we are, you keep shrinking back from me.” Buffy looked up into his eyes and he sighed. “We’re breaking up, aren’t we?” She nodded. “Why?”

“I don’t love you like you should be, I’m sorry.” She hated seeing the look of pain in his eyes, but didn’t he see hers?

“Does this have anything to do with Spike?” Riley sneered the last part of the question.

“What? No, why would this have anything to do with him?” Buffy looked genuinely confused.

“Because you compare me to him.”

“I do not!” A little voice in Buffy’s head said, ‘Yes you do. You compare all men to Spike.’

“Don’t lie to me. I know you do. You tell him your secrets. I know you do. You don’t tell me your secrets, your thoughts, your fears. You tell HIM those.”

“That’s not true, Riley. Anyway this has nothing to do with Spike!”

“Keep telling yourself that, Buff. Maybe one day you will believe that. You compare everyone to the pedestal you call Spike. He isn’t perfect Buffy. You read what five lines from him every week and you automatically think he’s GOD. He isn’t Buffy and the sooner you figure out that the better you’ll be.” Riley grabbed his coat and left slamming the front door. Buffy stood there stunned beyond words at what Riley just said. Was it true, did she hold up everyone in her life to Spike?

April 1998

Buffy decided that Cordelia was right. Have fun while it lasted so Buffy walked up to Goldilocks and waited for Spike. She wore a pair of faded blue jeans a purple halter-top. Her dark blonde hair hung loosely around her shoulders. Five minutes after 6, she spotted him walking towards her with his friend from the previous night. He was wearing the same thing as he did last night, a black shirt and jeans. Noticing her, Spike increased his pace towards her. She stood up, away from the wall as he came forward with his arms open. Spike picked her up and twirled her around. Finishing the twirl, her mouth came down on his as they kissed Hello. “Hey, Buffy. I missed you.” His deep, sexy voice reverberated through her.

Buffy said the first thing that popped in her head. “I love it when you say my name.”

“Really?” He stuck his nose near her ear and whispered, “Buffy, Buffy, Buffy.”

Giggling, Buffy looked over at Spike’s friend. “Hi, I’m Buffy, you must be Xander.” She disengaged herself from Spike’s embrace and stuck her hand out.

“Xander is me,” They shook hands and Spike retook possession of Buffy’s body with his arm around her shoulders.

“So, Xander here got us an invite for a barbeque on the beach. Want to go, pet?” With her nod, the trio walked towards the beach.

April 1998

Buffy thought that the barbeque was going great. Xander was cracking jokes and making Buffy laugh. Spike took up his seat behind Buffy, encouraging her to lean back on him. The food, hamburgers and hot dogs, was over done, but still good. Someone had a keg and the beer flowed freely. Buffy was feeling a definite buzz as she giggled at Xander. Spike ran his hands through her shoulder length hair, twirling the ends around his fingers. “Hey, pet. Want to go for a walk?” At her nod, Spike helped Buffy stand up. Xander, getting the hint went on to socialize with others at the party.

They walked hand in hand down the beach to a less populated area when Spike stopped Buffy. He hugged her to his body and whispered in her hair, “Buffy, Buffy, Buffy. I missed you all today. Did you know that, pet?” His hands roamed her back, bringing her closer. “I picked up the bloody phone at least ten times wanting to call you, but didn’t know your number.” His mouth made it’s way down her neck, “What’s your number, baby.”

Her mouth was currently latched to the side of his face sucking and nibbling. He tasted slightly of soap, aftershave, smoke, and something unique. “Mhmmhaah.”

“What was that, luv?” He stopped his traveling mouth and stepped back a little without letting go.

Sighing, Buffy clarified, “It’s a bad idea.”

“What is, luv?” She glared at him for the use of endearment. Spike was good all last night with not using it, but it seems he was slipping back to it.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea to give it to you.” Spike let go of her and stepped back.

“What? Why isn’t it a good idea? Don’t you trust me?” Spike started to pace right in front of her on the sand.

“It’s not that. It’s just that… see if I give you my number expecting you to call and then… you don’t… I just don’t want to be hurt.” Buffy’s arms encircled her stomach.

“Oh, I see. But it is bloody fucking OK to hurt me by not giving it to me and giving me the opportunity to not disappoint you?” Spike threw his hands up in the air as he was talking.

“No, I mean… Spike I just don’t want to be hurt. Give my hopes up and stuff. In a few days you are going to be gone but I’m not. I’m going to walk around and see all the places we were together and remember.” She couldn’t even look at him. Buffy hated hurting Spike like she was, but it was for the best. If she gave in, she would be the one that hurt.

“You don’t think I would call you? I’ll call you! I like you! I’m not going to just fall off the planet.” He stopped pacing and stood in front of her. “Look at me!”

Bringing her eyes to rest on him, she suddenly wanted to tell him her name, number, address, email, and social security number. She wanted to tell him everything. She wanted to tell him about being only 18, being in high school, her fears and desires. But that little voice in her head that sounded similar to Cordelia won out. “You say that now, Spike. But I’ve seen it before. You will leave and I will sit near the phone waiting for you to call and you won’t. I’ve watched Cordy do it many times.”

“That may be true about others, but not about me. And it doesn’t look like Cordy will be waiting by the phone from the looks of it.” Spike came forward to touch her arm.

“What do you mean?” She didn’t break away from his embrace.

Spike motioned over to his right where Cordy and a new man were making out on the beach. “Looks like she is too busy to give out her number.”

Watching her friend make out with a different guy tonight, Buffy shivered and said quietly, “Why can’t we just enjoy the time we have?”

Spike looked at her and couldn’t believe her. She gave all signs at wanting a relationship versus just a fling, yet she just told him she just wanted to have fun. Sighing, Spike didn’t know what to do. “I can deal with that.” For now, he vowed.

Present:

Buffy sat down at her desk and started her home computer. Maybe she could catch the latest gossip for her favorite soap opera. Starting her Instant Messenger, Buffy was pleasantly surprised to see another email from Spike. It occurred to her that she’s been thinking about Spike a lot lately. Shaking her head she opened up the message and laughed. Throughout the years he continually tried to pry her private information out of her, especially when she moved from Sunnydale to LA. He claimed he wanted to send her an apartment-warming present, but she didn’t buy it. Every once in a while he would try to get her to come visit him in Chicago. She refused. Buffy wasn’t sure why she refused, but she did. A little voice in the back of her brain said, ‘you don’t want to visit him because you put him up on a pedestal. If you saw him again you would see that he wasn’t perfect and like every other guy.’ Another voice, a small voice said, ‘because if you saw him you would give it up. You would fall head over heals, that is if you aren’t already.’ Shutting out the voices, Buffy hit reply.

Subject: Re: Hey there cutie

Date: Saturday, 21 June 2003 18:56:37 -0600

From: EAS@hotmail.com

To: sxyspike@hotmail.com

Hey, Handsome!

You never give up, do you? You know we agreed to keep it to emailing. Why mess with a good thing? I met Cordy at a coffee house this morning. She is doing fine and working a lot. She claims she is an ‘important actress.’ I laughed and told her she wasn’t.

Dawn is off restriction and dating Angel’s half brother again. What I would like to know if how did she find in a city of over 3 million the one brother of my ex? It’s uncanny. I guess it could be worse Conner is nothing like the ‘poof.’ He treats her right and is nice enough. He calls me ma’am though. Gives me shivers.

LOL, I guess I am rambling. Riley and I had a fight last night, a BIG fight. I think it was the fight, the breakup fight. I’m not sure. He thinks that because I share my thoughts and stuff with you on a daily basis that I don’t feel the need to share them with him. I share with him. Ridiculous, huh?

Anyways, its late Saturday night and should be getting some shut-eye.

Talk to you later,

Buffy

Sunday came and Buffy was depressed. Not only was she now boyfriend-less but also Dawn was not. Currently, Dawn and Conner were sitting in the living room watching the Die Hard movies. Buffy watched the first movie with them but quickly felt like a third wheel and therefore got up and headed into her bedroom. Sitting on her bed looking around, Buffy’s eyes landed on her computer. Deciding to surf a little, Buffy turned it on and connected to the Internet. There were two messages from Spike.

Subject: Re: Hey there cutie

Date: Sunday, 22 June 2003 5:45:18 -0900

From: sxyspike@hotmail.com

To: EAS@hotmail.com

I got you! I got you! I got you! HA Bloody HA, I got you.

Spike

Sitting back in her chair, Buffy contemplated the message. Deciding the second message must hold the answer she opened that one up.

Subject: Explanation

Date: Sunday, 22 June 2003 5:45:18 -0900

From: sxyspike@hotmail.com

To: EAS@hotmail.com

I don’t know if you realize this but you just told me what city you live in… with over 3 million people you must be in LA. Coincidently enough I’m in LA. Want to get together, pet? I know what you are thinking, why mess with something that works. You always say that. But come on, Buffy, we haven’t seen each other in 5 years. Oh, I know you don’t want to meet because you are fat and ugly now. That’s what it must be. And you think that if we met I would be repulsed and never want to talk to you again.

Sorry about the Riley thing. Well, not really, I didn’t like him. And that thing about you telling me all your secrets I can testify that you don’t. I don’t know your last name, number, or address. But I do know that you live in LA. I just want to hop up and down in this hotel room singing ‘Na Na Na na neener,’ but that would ruin my bad boy image, wouldn’t it? Anyway, you must have broken up because you’re fat and ugly.

I’m sitting here watching the sunrise and I can’t help thinking back to day we spent at the beach. That was one of the best days in my life. Do you ever think back about that time?

Spike

Hitting reply Buffy started to type but an instant message window popped up.

Sxyspike: Pet?

BAS: PIG!!

Sxyspike: Buffy?

BAS: I’m not talking to you

Sxyspike: awe come on, I was just kidding.

BAS: just because you say you were kidding doesn’t make it better

BAS: you called me fat and ugly

Sxyspike: Why don’t you want to meet? I’m in LA you are in LA.

BAS: I’ve told you… why mess with a good thing?

Sxyspike: Just because you think it is good, doesn’t mean it is

BAS: What is that supposed to mean?

Sxyspike: What do you think I meant?

BAS: You don’t think it is good?

Sxyspike: Why do you think I want you to come visit me? I miss you

BAS: Spike…

Sxyspike: It seems like a waste to be all the way out here, knowing you are somewhere near and not visit

Buffy stared at the screen for a couple minutes.

Sxyspike: Buffy?

BAS: Yeah?

Sxyspike: Please?

BAS: I’m sorry

Sxyspike: Don’t I’m sorry me. I want to see you!

BAS: I can’t

Sxyspike: Why?

BAS: Dawn.

Sxyspike: Is 17 yrs old and can take care of her self for a couple hours. PLEASE?

BAS: How long are you in town?

Sxyspike: Until Friday

BAS: OK

Sxyspike: What’s the verdict?

BAS: Can you give me some time?

Sxyspike: J You just made me the happiest man in LA

BAS: I got to go, Dawn and Conner are in the living room and it’s too quiet

Sxyspike: Buffy?

BAS: Yes?

Sxyspike: Thank you, you won’t regret it

BAS: I haven’t agreed to anything yet, bleach boy

Sxyspike: No but you’ve given me a crumb. The biggest you’ve given me since that day at the beach.

BAS: Bye, Spike

Sxyspike: Bye, luv

BAS: Why do you insist using that name?

Sxyspike: Because I knew it would make you keep talking

BAS: Pig

Sxyspike: It worked, didn’t it?

BAS: BYE!

Buffy clicked off the Internet connection. She shook her head, that man was insufferable.

April 1998

It was the last day of Spring Break. They both knew it and both didn’t mention it. Currently, they were sitting on the beach, wrapped in each-others arms watching the sunset in the west. “OK, How about your email?”

“Spike!” Buffy whined.

“You have to give me something, pet! Please.” Spike ran his fingers up her arm.

“Spike, I told you…”

“How can I prove that I’m not like the other blokes?” His hand tightened around her elbow.

“Spike, please… just enjoy the time we have left.”

“Please Buffy, your email… that’s all I am asking for.”

“Spike…”

“I’ve shared more with you than I ever had with anyone! Not even my own mum knows half the stuff I’ve told you. Please don’t just throw it way.” His plea hit Buffy straight in the chest, smack dab in the center of her heart.

“Spike,” her appeal was cut short with his mouth descending on hers. Her tongue flicked out to meet his. Over the past three days the two got quite comfortable and good at this. Spike’s hands roamed around to her back, pressing her body closer to his as the kissing deepened.

“Buffy,” he whispered in her hair. His hands found the hem of her shirt and lifted it up a little. In search for more contact, Buffy’s arms wound around Spike’s neck and played with the soft hairs on the back of his head. “Buffy,” his plea was heard by her and her alone. Giving in, Buffy moved her own hands to her back and undid her bra. Instantly, Spike’s hands were cupping and teasing her breasts as they kissed. For the past couple days, every night the two got a little more intimate with their sessions. “Please.” She knew he was begging for more than just touching her.

“Oh, Spike,” Buffy’s hands made their way under his shirt, touching his abs. “I want you.” Spike broke away from kissing her when she said it. Looking directly in his eyes she said “B A S at Hotmail dot com.” With the omission of her email Spike went back to kissing her senseless. Her fingers made their way down to the top of his jeans, playing with the fabric near the button.

“Oh my god, pet. Please touch me!” With his permission she undid the button and zipper. Delving in, Buffy realize he wasn’t wearing any underwear.

“Commando?” Buffy giggled as Spikes hands ran under her shirt and played with her erect nipples. Looking around long enough to realize the sun dipped below the horizon and anyone around them wouldn’t notice, she grabbed his hard cock and freed it from its confines. “Oh my god!” She breathed as she watched him lengthen further in her hand. “How big are you?” She looked up into his dancing eyes.

“Never took a measuring tape to it, pet.” She sighed and looked back down. She squeezed it gently and watched a drop of pre cum collect at the tip of his long hard as steel cock. “Oh God! Buffy! You feel so good.” His face dipped down and suckled on her tit through her shirt.

“So soft!” Her fingers wound there way around him. Pushing down his pants, Buffy’s hands stroked him up and down.

“I bloody well hope not! Or we are in trouble.”

“Not like that, silly! It’s so velvety and it looks good enough to eat.” Licking her lips her head bobbed down to his groin. He mouth engulfed his tip. Her tongue encircled his slit, lapping up the moisture collecting there.

“Oh bloody hell. Oh yeah,” his hand rested on her head, holding it but not pushing. He wanted to thrust so badly, but tried to refrain. Her tongue swirled around the head again, carefully flicking below the head. She brought her hand to his groin and cupped his balls. She lifted her head a little and then slid it back down slowly. Her index finger moved between his ball sacs and lightly touched the skin behind them. “You’re killing me.” Smiling around his cock, Buffy flicked her tongue around and touched the skin close to his anus, driving his lust further. She bobbed her head again, taking in more of his long cock. Her other hand came around and grabbed his base, stroking up towards her mouth and then back. She developed a pattern with her mouth and two hands, bobbing, squeezing, and probing. “I’m coming, luv. Please… I’m coming!”

Grinning, she probed her finger further into his anus and took his cock in further into her mouth. With the combined sensations, Spike roared to his climax. Licking up all his spendings, Buffy let go of his softening cock. She licked her lips and grinned at Spike, “Mm, delicious.”

“You little minx!” Spike looked at her. Her hair was wild, eyes wild open, and licking her lips. “Let’s get out of here.” Tucking himself in and helping her redo her bra, they headed off the beach.

Present

Spike sat in the hotel looking at his laptop with a silly grin on his face. She was here! He knew it! Where else would Cordelia help her relocate? Buffy logged off to quickly for him to continue to taunt her, but he knew that she was breaking. Her resolve was breaking, after five fucking years he finally was getting through to her. Clapping his hands together, Spike was ready for her. Taking the rest of the personnel files out, he continued his perusal of them. Every couple minutes he would look at the computer, waiting for her to log in again, but she didn’t.

April 1998

They dragged themselves to Spike’s hotel room. Somehow through the kisses and the groping they made their way from the beach to his room. Hearing the click of the door, Buffy launched herself into his arms. She pinned him against the wall and practically climbed up his body. Wrapping her legs around his waist, she could feel her erection. “Don’t get tired, do you?”

“Not when it comes to you, Buffy.” He whispered her name just like her knew she liked.

“That drives me crazy, the way you say my name.” Her kisses got more and more passionate.

“I know,” he carried her towards the bed. “Buffy, Buffy, Buffy.” His legs hit the side of the bed and he pushed her legs down. Kneeling on the bed, Buffy watched Spike as he took off his shirt.

“Beautiful!” Her voice was filled with wonder and awe.

Smirking he said, “Don’t you mean handsome?”

“Uh huh.” She was memorized with his naked chest. Coming forward he lifted her shirt up and off. He reached behind her and unlatched the bra.

Looking at her chest, “Now that is beautiful.” She reached for his pants, but he held her hands at bay. “Let me, pet.” He helped her lay down on the bed and unbuttoned her own pants. Sliding them down, he took in every inch of her tanned skin. Spike laid on top of her and ran kisses from her head to her belly, not missing one iota piece of her skin. Her breathing was ragged as he continued his journey down. He lifted her knees over his shoulder and looked down at her pussy. Her labia lips were swollen with want and need and he could see her core was glistening with desire. “Soon, Buffy.” Tearing his eyes away, he bent down and started a trail of kisses and nibbled down the inside of the thigh down to her toes. She watched him with heavy lids as he took on toe in his mouth, sucking sensually on it. Bucking up, Buffy screamed as a mini orgasm shot through her.

“Oh my god!” Her fingers dug on the bedspread as Spike continued to kiss and lick every single toe. He moved to the other foot and paid equal attention to her toes and foot. Buffy’s hips were mindlessly jerking up and down at the sensation. Moving his way up towards her center, Spike stared into her eyes. His fingers found her wet core before his mouth made it all the way up and started to circle the outside. Moaning, Buffy bucked up again.

“Tsk, tsk. None of that.” Spike took both his hands and held Buffy’s hips at bay. His tongue snaked out and licked her bottom to top. Her body, ready for him, begged him, shook with want as he took his time. Straightening his tongue, Spike flicked it against her clit, sending Buffy over on a very big orgasm. Smiling to himself, Spike couldn’t believe that she went over with the barest touch of his tongue. He delved down her snatch and started to lick her juices up. Carefully, he opened her pussy up and licked inside, sending her on another orgasm.

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